A passion to provide compassion

December 19, 2018 | Charissa Tulinao

To alleviate the misery of the victims of a fire that happened on December 16, Tzu Chi volunteers head to Barangay Dela Paz, Anitpolo City to distribute relief goods to 33 families. 【Photo by Charissa Tulinao】

Story Highlights

Tzu Chi volunteers went to Barangay Dela Paz in Antipolo City on December 19 to conduct a relief distribution for 33 families that were victimized by a fire. Goods that were distributed includes blankets, kitchen utensils; biscuits, clothes and toiletries.

The importance of dedication and passion towards volunteerism shined when Barangay Dela Paz in Antipolo City suffered an unfortunate event on December 16 as a fire spread throughout their community, destroying homes and causing families to relocate.

On December 19, volunteers head to Antipolo to conduct a relief distribution to 33 families. As any other relief, the volunteers begin with a short introduction to Tzu Chi and its missions. Most of the residents were eager to learn about the foundation and they attentively listen to the sharing of one of the volunteer’s experience before and after joining Tzu Chi.

The fire happened on a Sunday night when majority of the residents have just finished their dinner. A local from the neighboring barangay, Tzu Chi volunteer Rebecca Albis heard from acquaintances about the fire. She quickly get in touch with Tzu Chi Foundation to inquire if a relief could be held for the victims.

This act of volunteerism and initiative moved the residents. Even if the fire brought them misery, the blessings they received remind them not to give up.

“It’s our obligation as volunteers to be ready at any time to help others especially people that are less fortunate than us. As a volunteer, we must have compassion. Master Cheng Yen always tells us that it’s more important to help,” said 57-year old Albis.

Analiza Danday, 45 rushed to safety with her husband and children when they realized that there was a fire, they were unable to save their belongings and even their pets perished unfortunately.

“We were unable to do anything except just watch our house burn down,” Analiza shared.

She also noticed the significance of the program before the distribution as she felt the difference with other organizations in comparison to Tzu Chi. She was thankful that a volunteer from the city was able to relay their situation to Tzu Chi.

“I was very interested with the sharing of the volunteers about Master Cheng Yen of the Tzu Chi foundation because she is so compassionate, she shows so much love,” said Analiza.

Chief Tanod, Ryan Abrera recalled that the barangay patrol responded quickly as soon as they heard about the fire. They organized areas wherein the families could relocate temporarily while they recovering from the incident. The barangay’s court and chapel were used as relocation centers.

He expressed his concern for the residents since this fire happened during the holiday season but he was also grateful that help for the victims keep pouring in.

“It’s very sad, but we are also very happy that they were blessed with the help from different organizations and especially Tzu Chi. They were given some items to help them start over again for the holidays,” said Abrera.

Tzu Chi volunteer Rebecca Albis guides the victims by leading them to their lines and explaining the process of the relief distribution. 【Photo by Charissa Tulinao】

Analiza Danday participates in the prayer spearheaded by the volunteers. Most of the residents become emotional during the prayer as they recall the tragedy they went through. 【Photo by Charissa Tulinao】

The residents donate coins to the coin cans as a form of giving back and having an opportunity to help others who are in need. 【Photo by Charissa Tulinao】

The relief goods were placed in a large eco bag for easy handling. Included in the distribution sets are basic necessities like plates; tumblers; spoon & fork. 【Photo by Charissa Tulinao】

With the help of a volunteer, Analiza Danday receives the relief goods with gratitude and appreciation. 【Photo by Charissa Tulinao】

Volunteers survey the site and the home where the fire started. 【Photo by Charissa Tulinao】

Temporary shelters like the chapel and covered court were used by the barangay for the affected families. Volunteers visit the victims to learn about their condition and their current well-being. 【Photo by Charissa Tulinao】

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